Former Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit Following Agreement Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a substantial damages claim amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to comment on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving the team left him without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but added it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that they would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
